IHD-What is Human Dignity? By Marisa Naryka
Human dignity is the inherent and inviolable worth of every human person, regardless of their background, circumstances, or abilities. It is rooted in the belief that every individual is created in the image and likeness of God and possesses inherent dignity, value, and rights that must be respected and upheld.
Scriptures reminds us that “God shows no partiality” (Acts 10:24; cf. Rom 2:11; Gal 2:6; Eph 6:9), since all people have the same dignity as creatures made in his image and likeness” (Compendium). In Galatians, it is written: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Gal 3:28; cf Rom 10:12; I Cor 12:13, col 3:11).
Recognizing the glory of God shining on the face of every person establishes the dignity of each person before God as the foundation before other human beings. Thus providing the foundation of radical equality and brotherhood among all people (Compendium, no. 144).
In Fratelli Tutti, Pope Francis reminds us that “God loves every man and woman with infinite love and ‘thereby confers infinite dignity’ upon all humanity [61]” (n. 85). Thus, affirming Christ’s command to love your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 19:19/Mark 12:31).
The Brothers of the Christian Schools in the 45th General Chapter states, “3.3. The anthropological view of human nature that motivates Lasallians recognizes and dignifies every human being as being unique, unrepeatable, and educable. 3.4 They recognize human dignity in the face of everyone they meet.”
Therefore, our Catholic faith and Lasallian heritage compel us to encounter each person with reverence, recognizing his/her inherent worth as sons and daughters of God. By doing so, we acknowledge Christ’s presence amongst us and through our neighbor.
Reflection Question: How can I uphold the inherent dignity of my students, colleagues, and neighbor?
Resources:
Fratelli Tutti – Pope Francis
45th General Chapter, Circular 461, 2010
Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church
Image: pdfma6-pdfamouspainting095001c-image.jpg
Image Credit: Rawpixel.com on Freepik
